Shotline Diving Wreck Profile
- Name: Unidentified Airboat (Ice Boat)
- Type: Airboat
- Year Built:
- Builder:
- Dimensions: 20.5 ft (6.2 m); Beam; Depth of hold
- Registered Tonnage:
- Depth at Wreck Site: 30.2 m / 99 ft
- Location: St. Lawrence River, near Yeo Island, Rockport, Ontario
- Coordinates: 44°22.701’N 75°54.875’W
Wreck Location Map
Vessel Type
This airboat, often termed an ice boat when associated with winter operations, was designed for versatile navigation over both ice and water. Its flat-bottom hull enabled gliding over icy or shallow water surfaces, while a large, deck-mounted fan or propeller provided propulsion.
Description
Measuring 20.5 feet (6.2 meters) in length, the vessel’s compact design minimized drag, making it ideal for wintertime utility tasks such as search and rescue, transportation, and recreational use in icy regions.
History
The history of this airboat is largely speculative due to limited information. Airboats gained popularity in the early to mid-20th century for their ability to navigate challenging conditions. This particular vessel, found near Yeo Island in the St. Lawrence River, adds a unique narrative to the region’s maritime history.
Possible uses of airboats in the area include:
- Winter transportation across ice-covered waterways.
- Emergency and rescue operations during seasonal freeze-overs.
- Recreational excursions or local utility work.
The circumstances of its loss are unknown, but its preservation at nearly 100 feet of depth hints at an abrupt or unforeseen event leading to its submersion.
Significant Incidents
Discovery Confirmation:
- Initial confirmation via side scan sonar on August 9, 2023, by Shotline Diving (SLD).
- Further confirmation on August 18, 2024.
Final Disposition
The wreck of the airboat lies at 99 feet (30.2 meters), confirmed by sonar imaging. The side scan revealed a well-preserved flat-bottom hull, characteristic of airboats. Cold, oxygen-poor conditions in the St. Lawrence River likely contributed to the vessel’s preservation.
Further research and exploration are needed to determine its history, construction details, and the conditions surrounding its sinking.
Current Condition & Accessibility
The wreck is accessible to experienced divers, with visibility and safety conditions dependent on local water currents. Due to its relatively shallow depth for technical divers and preserved state, the site is an intriguing opportunity for underwater exploration. Further detailed examination could provide insights into the vessel’s construction and historical use.
Resources & Links
[shotline_reference_links slug=”rockport-airboat” title=”References & Links” show_ref_button=”yes”]
The discovery of the airboat wreck near Yeo Island enriches the maritime history of the St. Lawrence River. Though much of its story remains a mystery, its unique design and purpose reflect a fascinating chapter of innovation in transportation and utility. Further exploration and research may uncover more about its construction, operational use, and the events leading to its sinking.
Full Wreck Record — complete historical article, construction details, voyage logs, incident reports, dive conditions, and all research sources.
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